Before you visit India, it’s important to be aware of any travel advisories and restrictions around the country. Here’s everything international travelers should know about restrictions in India and where to find updated information.

India Travel Restrictions

Please note that this information is subject to change. For the latest on India travel restrictions, always check government sites directly as noted below.

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COVID-19

COVID-19 Restrictions: None

While there are no COVID-19 travel restrictions or requirements to enter India at this time, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers be up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccines.

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Health and Safety Warnings

On May 13 and 15, 2023, the US Department of State issued travel alerts for Amritsar and Manipur due to violent protests and IED explosions.

Since October 9, 2022, the US Department of State has issued a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory for travel to India. This is due to increased levels of terrorism and crime in the following territories:

  • Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do not travel due to violent civil unrest and terrorist attacks.
  • India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do not travel due to strong military presence on both sides of the border.
  • Northeastern States – Level 4: Do not travel or travel with caution in this part of northern India due to occasional bombings of buses, rail lines, trains, and markets by ethnic insurgent groups.
  • Central and East India – Level 4: Do not travel due to frequent terrorist attacks on local police, government officials, and paramilitary forces by Maoist extremist groups known as “Naxalites.”

The US State Department advises against travel to these high-risk areas as they may be unable to assist you in case of emergency. Review the State Department’s guide to traveling in high-risk areas for more information.

The CDC currently has a Watch Level 1 set for travelers to India, due to increased numbers of cases of measles reported in many international destinations. Practice usual precautions if you decide to go.

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Women's Safety

The current State Department Level 2 warning is also due to increased incidents of sexual assault and rape. Travel with caution, and for solo female travelers, review our recommendations for personal safety in major cities and safe solo travel around India.

Where to Find Updated India Travel Restrictions

For the most recent and up-to-date information on Indian travel restrictions, visit the following:

For other countries, please check your country’s India embassy website or official state department website for updated travel advisories and restrictions.

What to Do in Case of Emergency

Be aware of your surroundings: Monitor local media, be aware of Indian authorities’ public statements, know where your nearest police station is, and be aware of India’s entry and exit requirements in case you need to leave with little or no warning. Travel insurance is always a good idea.

If you find yourself in trouble while traveling through India, reach out to your country’s embassy for assistance. You can also enroll in the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Signing up delivers travel alerts right to your phone or email, and it makes it easier for local authorities to find and contact you in case of emergency.

Prepare for Your India Trip

Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting an India visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to India, including local laws, health and safety, and local culture and customs, visit our India content hub.